One of Hong Kong's main highway links, the Cross-Harbour Tunnel, reopened early on Wednesday as a lockdown of the nearby Polytechnic University appeared to be drawing to a close with teams still combing the campus for remaining protesters.

WION Dispatch: Major roadways reopen in Hong Kong

Tightening control over efforts to manage the upheaval in Hong Kong, the Chinese leadership has set up a crisis command centre on the mainland side of the border and is considering replacing its official liaison to the restive semi-autonomous city, people familiar with the matter said.

As violent protests roil Hong Kong, top Chinese leaders in recent months have been managing their response from a villa on the outskirts of Shenzhen, bypassing the formal bureaucracy through which Beijing has supervised the financial hub for two decades.

Ordinarily, communications between Beijing and Hong Kong are conducted through a Chinese government body: the Liaison Office of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-state-media-say-hong-kong-elections-skewed-264514">Central People's Government in Hong Kong</a>. The Liaison Office is housed in a Hong Kong skyscraper stacked with surveillance cameras, ringed by steel barricades and topped by a reinforced glass globe.

In a sign of dissatisfaction with the Liaison Office's handling of the crisis, Beijing is considering potential replacements for the body's director, Wang Zhimin, two people familiar with the situation said. Wang is the most senior mainland political official stationed in Hong Kong.

The office has come in for criticism in Hong Kong and China for misjudging the situation in the city. "The Liaison Office has been mingling with the rich people and mainland elites in the city and isolated itself from the people," a Chinese official said. "This needs to be changed."

The Liaison Office may face increased pressure after city voters delivered a resounding defeat to pro-Beijing parties in local district elections on Sunday. Pro-democracy candidates won over 80 per cent of the seats, securing their first-ever majority after running a campaign against Beijing's perceived encroachments on Hong Kong's liberties.

The State Council's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office and the Liaison Office in Hong Kong did not reply to faxed requests for comment.

The office of Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam declined to comment for this story.

Bauhinia Villa

The crisis centre is located at the secluded Bauhinia Villa, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-summons-us-ambassador-over-hong-kong-rights-bill-264512">a property owned by the Hong Kong Liaison Office</a>, according to sources and official media, and named after the orchid that adorns the Hong Kong flag and currency. The villa, located just across Hong Kong's border with the mainland, has served as a crisis centre before: Senior Chinese officials stayed at the resort during the pro-democracy "Occupy Central" protests that rocked Hong Kong in 2014.

Top mainland officials have been gathering at the leafy compound to plot strategy and issue instructions aimed at defusing the crisis, according to six people familiar with the matter. Beijing authorities have been summoning key Hong Kong officials to meet at the villa during the five months of the increasingly violent anti-government protests, the sources said.

Among those who have attended, two of the people said, is embattled city leader Carrie Lam, who in September dramatically scrapped the controversial extradition bill that had ignited the protests, with approval by China's top leadership. Hong Kong police officials, business leaders and local pro-Beijing politicians have been summoned to the villa as well.

In an indication of the operation's importance, Chinese President Xi Jinping is receiving daily written briefings from Bauhinia Villa, said two officials and another person familiar with the operation.

The mainland Chinese and Hong Kong officials interviewed for this article spoke on condition of anonymity, citing the sensitivity of the matter.

A Shenzhen businessman with close ties to Chinese officials described the villa complex as a "frontline command centre" that authorities are using as a base for coordinating and monitoring the Hong Kong situation in a secure environment. The complex is "packed with people," the businessman said.

The establishment of the Shenzhen villa as a crisis centre with a channel to top leader Xi points to the gravity and delicacy of the situation in Hong Kong, diplomats said.

Mass protests erupted in June over an extradition bill that would have allowed individuals to be sent for trial to the mainland, where justice is controlled by the ruling Communist Party. Beijing wants to restore order in the city, but without being seen to be calling the shots.

Though the extradition bill has been killed, the protests have grown angrier, powered by a broad perception that Beijing is meddling improperly in city affairs and by complaints of police brutality. Hong Kong is governed under a charter which grants British-style rule of law until 2047, and its high degree of autonomy is widely seen as key to its prosperity as an international financial hub.

City and mainland officials say the police response has been measured and that any violence has been initiated by extreme protesters.

The lakeside setting of the villa, in a wooded neighbourhood, enables Beijing and Hong Kong officials to meet away from the glare of the Hong Kong media and the chaos of the city's protest-clogged streets.

Watch: Hong Kong holds district council elections amid political tensions

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-holds-district-council-elections-amid-political-tensions-264510/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

'Parallel headquarters'

The use of Bauhinia Villa to manage the crisis sets up a supplementary channel to the system <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-carrie-lam-thanks-residents-for-orderly-voting-after-district-elections-264504">Beijing put in place to oversee Hong Kong</a> after China regained control of the city from Britain in 1997.

The Liaison Office, which reports to China’s State Council, has long served as the platform for Beijing to radiate its influence in the city. The office fosters relationships with the Hong Kong government as well as establishment figures and an array of pro-Beijing and youth groups, including business and clan associations from Chinese provinces and regions.

"The Hong Kong situation has increasingly made Beijing authorities uncomfortable," said Sonny Lo, a veteran Hong Kong political commentator. Their desire for security and discretion, he said, is "the reason they select Shenzhen rather than Hong Kong as a kind of parallel headquarters in dealing with the Hong Kong crisis."

Senior Chinese officials initially tried to find a middle ground between not capitulating to the demands of the protesters, while trying to avoid a bloody crackdown that could damage the city's stature as a business centre, according to three of the people familiar with the Bauhinia operation. Beijing sought to give the impression it wasn't intervening in Hong Kong even after a million people took to the streets on June 9, the people said.

Shortly after that show of mass defiance, however, the senior-most Chinese leader in charge of Hong Kong affairs took action. That official, Vice Premier Han Zheng, authorized Lam to communicate directly with his office, rather than going through the Liaison Office, according to a person briefed on the matter, effectively establishing a hotline.

Subsequently, vice minister-level officials with China's Ministry of Public Security, Ministry of State Security, the Cyberspace Administration of China and other departments all visited the villa, three of the sources said, an indication of just how seriously Beijing took the situation.

The two most senior Chinese leaders overseeing Hong Kong have been using Bauhinia Villa to deal more closely with the local leaders of the restive city while remaining behind the scenes.

One is Zhang Xiaoming, the head of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, which sits under China's top policy-making body, the State Council. He has been a regular presence at the villa during the crisis, according to two sources who met with him there. A third person who met Zhang at Bauhinia Villa said Zhang spoke in detail about the now-shelved extradition bill and its importance, as well as subsequent attempts by Beijing to quell the unrest.

The other is Vice Premier Han himself. A day after Hong Kong protesters blocked access to the city's legislature on June 12, Han arrived at Bauhinia Villa and summoned Lam for a meeting, according to a person briefed on their discussions. Gathered at Bauhinia was a multi-departmental team of Chinese public security, cybersecurity and intelligence officers, as well as advisers on Hong Kong affairs, three sources said.

When Lam proposed a suspension of the bill at that meeting, Han agreed after talking with other leaders in Beijing, the person briefed on the meeting said. Lam then announced the suspension of the bill on June 15.

The Liaison Office and senior pro-Beijing politicians in the city "didn't know about the withdrawal until close to the decision," a senior Hong Kong official said. 
 
Banyan trees and barbed wire

The concession didn't placate the protesters, who demanded full and formal scrapping of the bill.

As the protests have persisted, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-matter-what-happens-hong-kong-is-part-of-china-chinese-foreign-minister-wang-yi-on-local-elections-264287">Beijing has taken a more visible role in Hong Kong</a>: Chinese aviation authorities called for Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific Airways to suspend staff who supported or participated in the demonstrations, mainland paramilitary forces conducted exercises openly just across the border in Shenzhen, and China last week criticised a Hong Kong court ruling that overturned the city's ban on face masks used by protesters, rare interference in the territory's judiciary.

Bauhinia Villa has long been an outpost for mainland China's dealings with semi-autonomous Hong Kong.

In addition to serving as a crisis centre during the 2014 protests, the villa has been used as a low-key venue for Chinese officials to meet with city figures, with lodging facilities and ample space for conferences and events. Bauhinia Villa also has hosted delegations from the Hong Kong pro-establishment and pro-Beijing camps for training sessions and preparatory meetings before annual legislative sessions in Beijing. Another government-owned resort that hosts official functions, Kylin Villa, sits nearby.

Xi himself stayed in Bauhinia Villa before he took power in 2012 and planted a tree inside the lake-side resort.

Security is tight, with checkpoints, spiked fences topped with barbed wire and numerous surveillance cameras. At the back is a steep tree-covered hill ringed with fencing, while on another side lies a conference centre. A Reuters journalist was turned away recently when he approached the property.

Tightening control over efforts to manage the upheaval in Hong Kong, the Chinese leadership has set up a crisis command centre on the mainland side of the border and is considering replacing its official liaison to the restive semi-autonomous city, people familiar with the matter said.

Tightening control over efforts to manage the upheaval in Hong Kong, the Chinese leadership has set up a crisis command centre on the mainland side of the border and is considering replacing its official liaison to the restive semi-autonomous city, people familiar with the matter said. As violent protests roil Hong Kong, top Chinese leaders in recent months have been managing their response from a villa on the outskirts of Shenzhen, bypassing the formal bureaucracy through which Beijing has supervised the financial hub for two decades. Ordinarily, communications between Beijing and Hong Kong are conducted through a Chinese government body: the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in Hong Kong. The Liaison Office is housed in a Hong Kong skyscraper stacked with surveillance cameras, ringed by steel barricades and topped by a reinforced glass globe. In a sign of dissatisfaction with the Liaison Office's handling of the crisis, Beijing is considering potential replacements for the body's director, Wang Zhimin, two people familiar with the situation said. Wang is the most senior mainland political official stationed in Hong Kong. The office has come in for criticism in Hong Kong and China for misjudging the situation in the city. "The Liaison Office has been mingling with the rich people and mainland elites in the city and isolated itself from the people," a Chinese official said. "This needs to be changed." The Liaison Office may face increased pressure after city voters delivered a resounding defeat to pro-Beijing parties in local district elections on Sunday. Pro-democracy candidates won over 80 per cent of the seats, securing their first-ever majority after running a campaign against Beijing's perceived encroachments on Hong Kong's liberties. The State Council's Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office and the Liaison Office in Hong Kong did not reply to faxed requests for comment. The office of Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam declined to comment for this story. Bauhinia Villa The crisis centre is located at the secluded Bauhinia Villa, a property owned by the Hong Kong Liaison Office, according to sources and official media, and named after the orchid that adorns the Hong Kong flag and currency. The villa, located just across Hong Kong's border with the mainland, has served as a crisis centre before: Senior Chinese officials stayed at the resort during the pro-democracy "Occupy Central" protests that rocked Hong Kong in 2014. Top mainland officials have been gathering at the leafy compound to plot strategy and issue instructions aimed at defusing the crisis, according to six people familiar with the matter. Beijing authorities have been summoning key Hong Kong officials to meet at the villa during the five months of the increasingly violent anti-government protests, the sources said. Among those who have attended, two of the people said, is embattled city leader Carrie Lam, who in September dramatically scrapped the controversial extradition bill that had ignited the protests, with approval by China's top leadership. Hong Kong police officials, business leaders and local pro-Beijing politicians have been summoned to the villa as well. In an indication of the operation's importance, Chinese President Xi Jinping is receiving daily written briefings from Bauhinia Villa, said two officials and another person familiar with the operation. The mainland Chinese and Hong Kong officials interviewed for this article spoke on condition of anonymity, citing the sensitivity of the matter. A Shenzhen businessman with close ties to Chinese officials described the villa complex as a "frontline command centre" that authorities are using as a base for coordinating and monitoring the Hong Kong situation in a secure environment. The complex is "packed with people," the businessman said. The establishment of the Shenzhen villa as a crisis centre with a channel to top leader Xi points to the gravity and delicacy of the situation in Hong Kong, diplomats said. Mass protests erupted in June over an extradition bill that would have allowed individuals to be sent for trial to the mainland, where justice is controlled by the ruling Communist Party. Beijing wants to restore order in the city, but without being seen to be calling the shots. Though the extradition bill has been killed, the protests have grown angrier, powered by a broad perception that Beijing is meddling improperly in city affairs and by complaints of police brutality. Hong Kong is governed under a charter which grants British-style rule of law until 2047, and its high degree of autonomy is widely seen as key to its prosperity as an international financial hub. City and mainland officials say the police response has been measured and that any violence has been initiated by extreme protesters. The lakeside setting of the villa, in a wooded neighbourhood, enables Beijing and Hong Kong officials to meet away from the glare of the Hong Kong media and the chaos of the city's protest-clogged streets. Watch: Hong Kong holds district council elections amid political tensions 'Parallel headquarters' The use of Bauhinia Villa to manage the crisis sets up a supplementary channel to the system Beijing put in place to oversee Hong Kong after China regained control of the city from Britain in 1997. The Liaison Office, which reports to China’s State Council, has long served as the platform for Beijing to radiate its influence in the city. The office fosters relationships with the Hong Kong government as well as establishment figures and an array of pro-Beijing and youth groups, including business and clan associations from Chinese provinces and regions. "The Hong Kong situation has increasingly made Beijing authorities uncomfortable," said Sonny Lo, a veteran Hong Kong political commentator. Their desire for security and discretion, he said, is "the reason they select Shenzhen rather than Hong Kong as a kind of parallel headquarters in dealing with the Hong Kong crisis." Senior Chinese officials initially tried to find a middle ground between not capitulating to the demands of the protesters, while trying to avoid a bloody crackdown that could damage the city's stature as a business centre, according to three of the people familiar with the Bauhinia operation. Beijing sought to give the impression it wasn't intervening in Hong Kong even after a million people took to the streets on June 9, the people said. Shortly after that show of mass defiance, however, the senior-most Chinese leader in charge of Hong Kong affairs took action. That official, Vice Premier Han Zheng, authorized Lam to communicate directly with his office, rather than going through the Liaison Office, according to a person briefed on the matter, effectively establishing a hotline. Subsequently, vice minister-level officials with China's Ministry of Public Security, Ministry of State Security, the Cyberspace Administration of China and other departments all visited the villa, three of the sources said, an indication of just how seriously Beijing took the situation. The two most senior Chinese leaders overseeing Hong Kong have been using Bauhinia Villa to deal more closely with the local leaders of the restive city while remaining behind the scenes. One is Zhang Xiaoming, the head of the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office, which sits under China's top policy-making body, the State Council. He has been a regular presence at the villa during the crisis, according to two sources who met with him there. A third person who met Zhang at Bauhinia Villa said Zhang spoke in detail about the now-shelved extradition bill and its importance, as well as subsequent attempts by Beijing to quell the unrest. The other is Vice Premier Han himself. A day after Hong Kong protesters blocked access to the city's legislature on June 12, Han arrived at Bauhinia Villa and summoned Lam for a meeting, according to a person briefed on their discussions. Gathered at Bauhinia was a multi-departmental team of Chinese public security, cybersecurity and intelligence officers, as well as advisers on Hong Kong affairs, three sources said. When Lam proposed a suspension of the bill at that meeting, Han agreed after talking with other leaders in Beijing, the person briefed on the meeting said. Lam then announced the suspension of the bill on June 15. The Liaison Office and senior pro-Beijing politicians in the city "didn't know about the withdrawal until close to the decision," a senior Hong Kong official said. Banyan trees and barbed wire The concession didn't placate the protesters, who demanded full and formal scrapping of the bill. As the protests have persisted, Beijing has taken a more visible role in Hong Kong: Chinese aviation authorities called for Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific Airways to suspend staff who supported or participated in the demonstrations, mainland paramilitary forces conducted exercises openly just across the border in Shenzhen, and China last week criticised a Hong Kong court ruling that overturned the city's ban on face masks used by protesters, rare interference in the territory's judiciary. Bauhinia Villa has long been an outpost for mainland China's dealings with semi-autonomous Hong Kong. In addition to serving as a crisis centre during the 2014 protests, the villa has been used as a low-key venue for Chinese officials to meet with city figures, with lodging facilities and ample space for conferences and events. Bauhinia Villa also has hosted delegations from the Hong Kong pro-establishment and pro-Beijing camps for training sessions and preparatory meetings before annual legislative sessions in Beijing. Another government-owned resort that hosts official functions, Kylin Villa, sits nearby. Xi himself stayed in Bauhinia Villa before he took power in 2012 and planted a tree inside the lake-side resort. Security is tight, with checkpoints, spiked fences topped with barbed wire and numerous surveillance cameras. At the back is a steep tree-covered hill ringed with fencing, while on another side lies a conference centre. A Reuters journalist was turned away recently when he approached the property.

China sets up Hong Kong crisis centre in mainland, open to replacing chief liaison

Chinese state media on Tuesday sought to downplay and discredit the results of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-summons-us-ambassador-over-hong-kong-rights-bill-264512">Hong Kong elections</a> that delivered a stunning victory for pro-democracy candidates and a stinging rebuke to the pro-Beijing establishment.

Local elections in the semi-autonomous city revealed broad public support for a protest movement that has stirred months of violence, as candidates seeking to loosen control by China seized an overwhelming majority of the 452 elected seats.

But the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-carrie-lam-thanks-residents-for-orderly-voting-after-district-elections-264504">election winners were not mentioned in Chinese-language state media</a> on Tuesday, including official broadcaster CCTV and Communist Party mouthpiece the People's Daily.

The People's Daily said, "social unrest... has seriously disrupted the electoral process."

An editorial in the English-language version of China Daily said the poll was "skewed by intimidation" and "dirty tricks".

The editorial said, "violent intimidation tactics were intended to reduce the exposure and visibility of pro-establishment candidates".

"External forces that have helped stoke the months-long anti-government campaign in the special administrative region also contributed greatly to damaging the election chances of pro-establishment candidates," it said.

A commentary in English on official news agency Xinhua said that the election "fell victim" to "rioters".

"Campaigns of some patriotic candidates were seriously disrupted, and their offices were trashed and set ablaze," it said Tuesday.

"One candidate was injured in an attack. Harassment on patriotic candidates occurred on the voting day."

The commentary went on to give its support to city leader Carrie Lam, and said the "Hong Kong community should also correctly understand the relationship between Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland".

The Tuesday front page of the nationalistic Global Times said the election had sparked "reflection" but warned it was "highly politicized amid ongoing social unrest".

The article went on to quote experts saying there was "no need to over-interpret the victory of pan-democrats".

Global Times said that "under the plurality voting system... the opposition won 80 per cent of seats with only 60 per cent of the vote".

On Monday evening, the flagship Chinese news programme Xinwen Lianbo also did not mention the Hong Kong elections.

Chinese state media on Tuesday sought to downplay and discredit the results of Hong Kong elections that delivered a stunning victory for pro-democracy candidates and a stinging rebuke to the pro-Beijing establishment.

Chinese state media on Tuesday sought to downplay and discredit the results of Hong Kong elections that delivered a stunning victory for pro-democracy candidates and a stinging rebuke to the pro-Beijing establishment. Local elections in the semi-autonomous city revealed broad public support for a protest movement that has stirred months of violence, as candidates seeking to loosen control by China seized an overwhelming majority of the 452 elected seats. But the election winners were not mentioned in Chinese-language state media on Tuesday, including official broadcaster CCTV and Communist Party mouthpiece the People's Daily. The People's Daily said, "social unrest... has seriously disrupted the electoral process." An editorial in the English-language version of China Daily said the poll was "skewed by intimidation" and "dirty tricks". The editorial said, "violent intimidation tactics were intended to reduce the exposure and visibility of pro-establishment candidates". "External forces that have helped stoke the months-long anti-government campaign in the special administrative region also contributed greatly to damaging the election chances of pro-establishment candidates," it said. A commentary in English on official news agency Xinhua said that the election "fell victim" to "rioters". "Campaigns of some patriotic candidates were seriously disrupted, and their offices were trashed and set ablaze," it said Tuesday. "One candidate was injured in an attack. Harassment on patriotic candidates occurred on the voting day." The commentary went on to give its support to city leader Carrie Lam, and said the "Hong Kong community should also correctly understand the relationship between Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland". The Tuesday front page of the nationalistic Global Times said the election had sparked "reflection" but warned it was "highly politicized amid ongoing social unrest". The article went on to quote experts saying there was "no need to over-interpret the victory of pan-democrats". Global Times said that "under the plurality voting system... the opposition won 80 per cent of seats with only 60 per cent of the vote". On Monday evening, the flagship Chinese news programme Xinwen Lianbo also did not mention the Hong Kong elections.

Chinese state media say Hong Kong elections 'skewed'

The Chinese foreign ministry said today that it had summoned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-carrie-lam-thanks-residents-for-orderly-voting-after-district-elections-264504">US ambassador Terry Branstad </a>and asked the US administration&nbsp;to scrap the Hong Kong Democracy Act or "bear all the consequences".

Last month the US House of Representatives had passed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-matter-what-happens-hong-kong-is-part-of-china-chinese-foreign-minister-wang-yi-on-local-elections-264287">Hong Kong Human Rights</a> and Democracy Act in a rare example of bipartisan support. Last week, the US Senate had passed the act. The proposed bill&nbsp;has provisions to demand sanctions on Chinese and Hong Kong officials identified by the US government for&nbsp;carrying out alleged human rights abuses.

The bill is now awaiting US President Trump's approval.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hong-kong-local-body-polls-big-victory-for-pro-democracy-candidates-264492/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

US ambassador Terry Branstad was summoned by Chinese vice foreign minister Zheng Zeguang as he voiced "strong protest" over the Hong Kong Democracy bill, the foreign ministry informed.

"The legislation brazenly interferes in China's internal affairs and indulges and supports the violent criminal behaviour by 'anti-China disrupting Hong Kong' forces," the ministry said, as it urged the US to "immediately correct its mistakes, prevent the above-mentioned Hong Kong-related bill from becoming law, and stop any words and deeds that interfere in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs."

"Otherwise, the US side must bear all the consequences," it said.

Hong Kong has seen months of massive protests turning violent as students have openly rebelled against Chinese officials and called for greater accountability and freedom. China has repeatedly said Hong Kong is a part of China and the protests are its internal matter.

On Monday, after Hong Kong's local elections, China's foreign minister referring to the polls said no matter what happens, Hong Kong is a part of China and a special administrative region of China.

"Any attempt to mess up Hong Kong, or even damage its prosperity and stability, will not succeed," Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi said.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam thanked Hong Kong residents for orderly voting on Sunday, while adding that her government would "seriously reflect" on the result of the community-level elections in which her pro-Beijing establishment took a severe drubbing, and would "improve governance".

The Chinese foreign ministry said today that it had summoned the US ambassador Terry Branstad and asked the US administration to scrap the Hong Kong Democracy Act or "bear all the consequences".

The Chinese foreign ministry said today that it had summoned the US ambassador Terry Branstad and asked the US administration to scrap the Hong Kong Democracy Act or "bear all the consequences". Last month the US House of Representatives had passed the Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act in a rare example of bipartisan support. Last week, the US Senate had passed the act. The proposed bill has provisions to demand sanctions on Chinese and Hong Kong officials identified by the US government for carrying out alleged human rights abuses. The bill is now awaiting US President Trump's approval. Watch Video: US ambassador Terry Branstad was summoned by Chinese vice foreign minister Zheng Zeguang as he voiced "strong protest" over the Hong Kong Democracy bill, the foreign ministry informed. "The legislation brazenly interferes in China's internal affairs and indulges and supports the violent criminal behaviour by 'anti-China disrupting Hong Kong' forces," the ministry said, as it urged the US to "immediately correct its mistakes, prevent the above-mentioned Hong Kong-related bill from becoming law, and stop any words and deeds that interfere in Hong Kong affairs and China's internal affairs." "Otherwise, the US side must bear all the consequences," it said. Hong Kong has seen months of massive protests turning violent as students have openly rebelled against Chinese officials and called for greater accountability and freedom. China has repeatedly said Hong Kong is a part of China and the protests are its internal matter. On Monday, after Hong Kong's local elections, China's foreign minister referring to the polls said no matter what happens, Hong Kong is a part of China and a special administrative region of China. "Any attempt to mess up Hong Kong, or even damage its prosperity and stability, will not succeed," Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi said. Meanwhile, Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam thanked Hong Kong residents for orderly voting on Sunday, while adding that her government would "seriously reflect" on the result of the community-level elections in which her pro-Beijing establishment took a severe drubbing, and would "improve governance".

China summons US ambassador over Hong Kong rights bill

Hong Kong holds district council elections amid political tensions. Watch video to know more.

Hong Kong holds district council elections amid political tensions

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-elections-young-voters-attributed-to-landslide-gains-for-pro-democracy-campaigners-264414">Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam</a> on Tuesday expressed gratitude towards residents of the Chinese-ruled city for orderly voting on Sunday despite a relatively volatile environment and said she hoped the peace signified people's resolve against violence.

Lam was speaking a day after poll results showed democratic candidates secured almost 90 per cent of 452 district council seats in Sunday's local elections, a landslide victory in polls that were widely seen as a barometer of support for Lam.

Watch: Hong Kong local body polls - Big victory for pro-democracy candidates

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-hong-kong-local-body-polls-big-victory-for-pro-democracy-candidates-264492/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The elections are being seen as a de-facto referendum on the city's Beijing-backed government to which China responded by saying no matter what the outcome is Hong Kong will always remain its part.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-democrats-romp-to-local-election-landslide-after-months-of-protests-264272">The results are being attributed to young voters</a> who participated in the anti-government protests.

The recent development sends a strong message to China and the city's Chief Executive Carrie Lam, as the pro-establishment camp won all the council seats in the last elections, held in 2015.

Earlier, the establishment had a majority in the district council with 292 seats.

The district council elections on Sunday laid bare concern over "deficiencies in the government, including unhappiness with the time taken to deal with the current unstable environment and of course to end violence", Lam acknowledged at a weekly press briefing.

The city's chief executive pledged that her government would "seriously reflect" on the result of the community-level elections in which her pro-Beijing establishment took a severe drubbing, and would "improve governance".

The poll outcome has re-energised calls by the pro-democracy camp for direct popular elections for the city's leadership and legislature and a probe into alleged police brutality against demonstrators.

But Lam sidestepped those calls, instead reiterating an earlier pledge to open a dialogue among all parties in the territory, a proposal that opponents have dismissed as too little, too late.

"What we need to do now is (open) community dialogue and invite social leaders to help us analyse the causes of the disturbances and Hong Kong’s deep-seated social problems, and to come up with solutions," Lam said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday expressed gratitude towards residents of the Chinese-ruled city for orderly voting on Sunday despite a relatively volatile environment and said she hoped the peace signified people's resolve against violence.

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam on Tuesday expressed gratitude towards residents of the Chinese-ruled city for orderly voting on Sunday despite a relatively volatile environment and said she hoped the peace signified people's resolve against violence. Lam was speaking a day after poll results showed democratic candidates secured almost 90 per cent of 452 district council seats in Sunday's local elections, a landslide victory in polls that were widely seen as a barometer of support for Lam. Watch: Hong Kong local body polls - Big victory for pro-democracy candidates The elections are being seen as a de-facto referendum on the city's Beijing-backed government to which China responded by saying no matter what the outcome is Hong Kong will always remain its part. The results are being attributed to young voters who participated in the anti-government protests. The recent development sends a strong message to China and the city's Chief Executive Carrie Lam, as the pro-establishment camp won all the council seats in the last elections, held in 2015. Earlier, the establishment had a majority in the district council with 292 seats. The district council elections on Sunday laid bare concern over "deficiencies in the government, including unhappiness with the time taken to deal with the current unstable environment and of course to end violence", Lam acknowledged at a weekly press briefing. The city's chief executive pledged that her government would "seriously reflect" on the result of the community-level elections in which her pro-Beijing establishment took a severe drubbing, and would "improve governance". The poll outcome has re-energised calls by the pro-democracy camp for direct popular elections for the city's leadership and legislature and a probe into alleged police brutality against demonstrators. But Lam sidestepped those calls, instead reiterating an earlier pledge to open a dialogue among all parties in the territory, a proposal that opponents have dismissed as too little, too late. "What we need to do now is (open) community dialogue and invite social leaders to help us analyse the causes of the disturbances and Hong Kong’s deep-seated social problems, and to come up with solutions," Lam said. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong: Carrie Lam thanks residents for 'orderly voting' after district elections, acknowledges 'voter unhappiness'

Clear Message From The People Of Hong Kong.

Gravitas: Hong Kong Local Body Polls: Big Victory For Pro-democracy Candidates

Two Leaks Reveal The Plight Of Uighurs In China Even As Hong Kong Votes For Democracy.

Gravitas: Detention Camps In Xinjiang: Highly Classified Documents Leak

Gravitas: Is China Witnessing A Silent Rebellion?

From the systematic purge of dissenters within the communist party to targetting students in Hong Kong to the sickening reality of millions of Uighurs in detention camps in Xinjiang province, Xi Jinping's China is veering towards dangerous majoritarianism and dictatorship.

On WION Edit, we will look at whether the Chinese president can survive the current political crisis.

The story of Uighur Muslims is revealing - this is the largest mass incarceration of an ethnic minority since the second world war. And so far, Xi Jinping's administration is getting away with it.

But the leaks, first in the New York Times and now by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICJ) reveal that all is not well within the Communist Party of China.

Yes, there is no open opposition to Xi Jinping but the cracks are widening.

Xi Jinping's stance to 'show no mercy' and 'allow no escapes' show hints of a leader who will do anything to prevent dissent. Also targetting partymen who oppose this 'dictatorial' and 'genocidal' mindset may have simmered dissent within the party.

The case of Hong Kong is much worse. The city-state has seen protests since the chief executive Carrie Lam brought the extradition bill.

The protests have grown in size and intent since then and now, the victory of pro-democracy candidates in local elections show that Hong Kongers will not sit idle and watch Xi Jinping's-dictatorship unfold.

Besides, the representatives are asking for democratic rights, something which will not sit pretty with the communist dictatorship in China.

Beijing can keep blaming the western world but the reality is this - the people of Hong Kong are fed up of authoritarianism. And police brutality will not save the day for Xi Jinping, it will only galvanise protests as the last six months have shown.&nbsp;

Look at it &nbsp;Xi Jinping has tried every trick at his disposal. Apps to teach the Xi Jinping thought have been forced on over 100 million people of China and Hong Kong. There is 'thought control' in the campuses of China's universities.&nbsp;

China's media has been forced to work under one maxim - 'love the party, protect the party'. Yet, one leak after another keeps emerging and that shows the rise in dissent.&nbsp;

For years, Xi Jinping has systematically promoted himself, but that image is getting eroded by the minute.

So can Xi survive this? The Chinese state has the military might, brutality and mind-numbing aggression to target its own people - if needed. This is a regime that will do anything to protect itself.

But, also bear in mind that the protesters are not giving up in Hong Kong and Xinjiang is a ticking time bomb. China's economy which served as a hedge against social unrest is unravelling under the pressure of the trade war. This is perhaps the biggest test to Xi Jinping's leadership.

International pressure is mounting too. There are 21 Australians, 5 of them - children - who have been detained in Xinjiang.

The global community has been tepid on the opposition to china's brutality so far, but that's changing too.

At some point in time, Xi Jinping's administration must come with a justification for what is doing in Xinjiang and Hong Kong.

At present, it seems as if Xi Jinping's situation is secure, but if the dissent grows in the party further, that may become untenable. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

From the systematic purge of dissenters within the communist party to targetting students in Hong Kong to the sickening reality of millions of Uighurs in detention camps in Xinjiang province, Xi Jinping's China is veering towards dangerous majoritarianism and dictatorship.

From the systematic purge of dissenters within the communist party to targetting students in Hong Kong to the sickening reality of millions of Uighurs in detention camps in Xinjiang province, Xi Jinping's China is veering towards dangerous majoritarianism and dictatorship. On WION Edit, we will look at whether the Chinese president can survive the current political crisis. The story of Uighur Muslims is revealing - this is the largest mass incarceration of an ethnic minority since the second world war. And so far, Xi Jinping's administration is getting away with it. But the leaks, first in the New York Times and now by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICJ) reveal that all is not well within the Communist Party of China. Yes, there is no open opposition to Xi Jinping but the cracks are widening. Xi Jinping's stance to 'show no mercy' and 'allow no escapes' show hints of a leader who will do anything to prevent dissent. Also targetting partymen who oppose this 'dictatorial' and 'genocidal' mindset may have simmered dissent within the party. The case of Hong Kong is much worse. The city-state has seen protests since the chief executive Carrie Lam brought the extradition bill. The protests have grown in size and intent since then and now, the victory of pro-democracy candidates in local elections show that Hong Kongers will not sit idle and watch Xi Jinping's-dictatorship unfold. Besides, the representatives are asking for democratic rights, something which will not sit pretty with the communist dictatorship in China. Beijing can keep blaming the western world but the reality is this - the people of Hong Kong are fed up of authoritarianism. And police brutality will not save the day for Xi Jinping, it will only galvanise protests as the last six months have shown. Look at it Xi Jinping has tried every trick at his disposal. Apps to teach the Xi Jinping thought have been forced on over 100 million people of China and Hong Kong. There is 'thought control' in the campuses of China's universities. China's media has been forced to work under one maxim - 'love the party, protect the party'. Yet, one leak after another keeps emerging and that shows the rise in dissent. For years, Xi Jinping has systematically promoted himself, but that image is getting eroded by the minute. So can Xi survive this? The Chinese state has the military might, brutality and mind-numbing aggression to target its own people - if needed. This is a regime that will do anything to protect itself. But, also bear in mind that the protesters are not giving up in Hong Kong and Xinjiang is a ticking time bomb. China's economy which served as a hedge against social unrest is unravelling under the pressure of the trade war. This is perhaps the biggest test to Xi Jinping's leadership. International pressure is mounting too. There are 21 Australians, 5 of them - children - who have been detained in Xinjiang. The global community has been tepid on the opposition to china's brutality so far, but that's changing too. At some point in time, Xi Jinping's administration must come with a justification for what is doing in Xinjiang and Hong Kong. At present, it seems as if Xi Jinping's situation is secure, but if the dissent grows in the party further, that may become untenable. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Is Xi Jinping facing rebellion from within?

Hong Kong Election: Pro-Democracy parties ahead in 12 out of 18 districts. Watch video to know more.

Hong Kong Election: Pro-Democracy parties ahead in 12 out of 18 districts

Hong Kong election: Pro-democracy parties make major gains. Watch video to know more.

Hong Kong election: Pro-democracy parties make major gains

'We will continue to fight': Hong Kongers react to record turnout in local body elections

Watch in WION Dispatch: Big blow to China backed Hong Kong govt. Watch this video as WION's Special Correspondent of Washington Times, Ryan Ho Kilpatrick tells you more on this. #WIONDispatch

WION Dispatch: Big blow to China backed Hong Kong govt

It's a landslide victory for pro-democracy lawmakers in the Hong Kong district council elections, which is being seen as a de-facto referendum on the city's Beijing-backed government to which China responded by saying no matter what the outcome is Hong Kong will always remain its part.

Counting is almost over and the pro-democracy camp has gained a majority in 17 out of 18 districts by winning 390 of total 452 seats.

The results are being attributed to young voters who participated in the anti-government protests.

The recent development sends a strong message to China and the city's Chief Executive Carrie Lam, as the pro-establishment camp won all the council seats in the last elections, held in 2015.

Earlier, the establishment had a majority in the district council with 292 seats.

Kelvin Lam, the candidate backed by activist Joshua Wong has won a seat from the South Horizons district.

Wong who was barred from contesting the polls for violating Hong Kong's basic law has said that pro-democracy movement won't stop at the local polls and will surge ahead.

Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that all camps in Hong Kong are pro-democracy and that the city will always remain a Chinese territory.

Beijing has also said that it supports Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam's leadership for Hong Kong.

In a statement released online, Carrie Lam has said that the government respected the verdict and will "seriously reflect" on the results.

Lam also noted that the results pointed to the people's dissatisfaction with the current situation and the deep-seated problems in society.

However, it is worth noting that these are local polls and do not impact Lam's position but they have certainly undermined her government's authority.

These are also the first public elections in Hong Kong since the mass protests broke out in June.

It's a landslide victory for pro-democracy lawmakers in the Hong Kong district council elections, which is being seen as a de-facto referendum on the city's Beijing-backed government to which China responded by saying no matter what the outcome is Hong Kong will always remain its part.

It's a landslide victory for pro-democracy lawmakers in the Hong Kong district council elections, which is being seen as a de-facto referendum on the city's Beijing-backed government to which China responded by saying no matter what the outcome is Hong Kong will always remain its part. Counting is almost over and the pro-democracy camp has gained a majority in 17 out of 18 districts by winning 390 of total 452 seats. The results are being attributed to young voters who participated in the anti-government protests. The recent development sends a strong message to China and the city's Chief Executive Carrie Lam, as the pro-establishment camp won all the council seats in the last elections, held in 2015. Earlier, the establishment had a majority in the district council with 292 seats. Kelvin Lam, the candidate backed by activist Joshua Wong has won a seat from the South Horizons district. Wong who was barred from contesting the polls for violating Hong Kong's basic law has said that pro-democracy movement won't stop at the local polls and will surge ahead. Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that all camps in Hong Kong are pro-democracy and that the city will always remain a Chinese territory. Beijing has also said that it supports Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam's leadership for Hong Kong. In a statement released online, Carrie Lam has said that the government respected the verdict and will "seriously reflect" on the results. Lam also noted that the results pointed to the people's dissatisfaction with the current situation and the deep-seated problems in society. However, it is worth noting that these are local polls and do not impact Lam's position but they have certainly undermined her government's authority. These are also the first public elections in Hong Kong since the mass protests broke out in June.

Hong Kong elections: Young voters attributed to landslide gains for pro-democracy campaigners

In Hong Kong Election, Democracy backers win 390 of 452 seats. Watch video to know more.

Hong Kong Election: Democracy backers win 390 of 452 seats

Hong Kong Election: Pro-democracy parties win 90% of the seats. Watch video to know more.

Hong Kong Election: Pro-democracy parties win 90% of the seats

Elections took place in Hong Kong amid Intensifying protests. 1,090 Candidates are contesting for the district elections.

Voting for District Elections Underway in Hong Kong

Polls closed in Hong Kong with no major disruptions on Sunday after people turned out in huge numbers to vote in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-state-media-urge-hong-kongers-to-vote-to-end-violence-264203">district council elections</a> seen as a test of support for chief executive Carrie Lam following six months of pro-democracy protests.

Government data released one hour before polling stations closed said nearly 2.9 million <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-election-4726-voting-turnout-by-afternoon-highest-so-far-in-history-264201">people had voted</a> by 9:30 p.m., a turnout rate of more than 69% - a record showing that appeared to have been encouraged by the political turmoil. About 1.47 million voted in the last district elections four years ago.

First results were due after midnight. The voter numbers showed people's determination, said one voter named Tsz, 30, who works in the service industry.

"The high turnout rate...definitely reflects Hong Kong people's hope for genuine universal suffrage," he said.

Casting her ballot, the Beijing-backed Lam pledged that her government would listen "more intensively" to the views of district councils in the Chinese-ruled city.

"I hope this kind of stability and calm is not only for today's election, but to show that everyone does not want Hong Kong to fall into a chaotic situation again," Lam said.

The protests started over a now-withdrawn extradition bill that would have allowed people to be sent to mainland China for trial but rapidly evolved into calls for full democracy, posing the biggest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012.

They have at times forced the closure of government, businesses and schools as police used tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannon in response to petrol bombs and rocks.

The run-up to the election was marked by attacks on candidates, with one stabbed and wounded and another having part of his ear bitten off.

Ming Lee, 26, who works in event production, said she hoped the higher turnout would benefit the pro-democracy camp that is battling some seats that were once uncontested and dominated by pro-Beijing candidates.

"I hope this vote can counter the voice of the pro-establishment, so as to bring in more voices from the democrats," she said. "The social problems encouraged people to vote and to focus on political issues."

The district councils control some spending and decide issues such as recycling and public health. A record 1,104 candidates were vying for 452 seats and a record 4.1 million people have enrolled to vote.

If the pro-democracy campaigners gain control, they could secure six seats on Hong Kong's semi-representative Legislative Council and 117 seats on the 1,200-member panel that selects its chief executive.

Jimmy Sham, a candidate for the Civil Human Rights Front, which organised some of the anti-government rallies, said: "We don't know yet, at the end of the day, if the democrats can win a majority. But I hope our Hong Kong citizens can vote for the future of Hong Kong."

Restaurant manager Jeremy Chan, 55, saw the elections as offering Beijing supporters a chance to share their opinions.

"They believe they are fighting for democracy, fighting for Hong Kong, but the rioters only listen to what they want to hear," Chan said, citing vandalism of businesses seen as pro-Beijing. "Freedom of speech is lost."

University challenge

Sunday was also the seventh day of a stand-off at Polytechnic University, whose campus has been surrounded by police as some protesters hid out on the grounds.

"The district council election is almost like a referendum on recent months of social activity," said a protester clad in a red university tracksuit, his face covered by a red mask.

"My personal liberty to vote has been violated," said the protester, who fears being seized by police if he tries to escape from the campus.

Demonstrators are angry at what they see as Chinese meddling in the freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997. They say they are also responding to perceived police brutality.

China denies interfering and says it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula for the autonomy of Hong Kong. Police say they have shown restraint in the face of potentially deadly attacks.

Electoral affairs chief Barnabus Fung said there had been 3,638 complaints on Sunday, mostly related to the long queues at polling stations, which he put down to the large numbers voting.

Well-known pro-democracy advocate Alexandra "Grandma" Wong, who was detained in the city of Shenzhen over the border from Hong Kong in August, said this was "the day that we are longing for".

"Because I was detained in Shenzhen, my ballot has become a wasted paper. This breaks my heart. Please help add oil for me and vote. All the Best!!! Be Safe!!!" she wrote according to a message on the Lennon Wall protest movement Facebook page.

It was not clear for how long Wong, who became a fixture at protests carrying a large British Union Jack flag, was detained. 
&nbsp;

Polls closed in Hong Kong with no major disruptions on Sunday after people turned out in huge numbers to vote in district council elections seen as a test of support for chief executive Carrie Lam following six months of pro-democracy protests.

Polls closed in Hong Kong with no major disruptions on Sunday after people turned out in huge numbers to vote in district council elections seen as a test of support for chief executive Carrie Lam following six months of pro-democracy protests. Government data released one hour before polling stations closed said nearly 2.9 million people had voted by 9:30 p.m., a turnout rate of more than 69% - a record showing that appeared to have been encouraged by the political turmoil. About 1.47 million voted in the last district elections four years ago. First results were due after midnight. The voter numbers showed people's determination, said one voter named Tsz, 30, who works in the service industry. "The high turnout rate...definitely reflects Hong Kong people's hope for genuine universal suffrage," he said. Casting her ballot, the Beijing-backed Lam pledged that her government would listen "more intensively" to the views of district councils in the Chinese-ruled city. "I hope this kind of stability and calm is not only for today's election, but to show that everyone does not want Hong Kong to fall into a chaotic situation again," Lam said. The protests started over a now-withdrawn extradition bill that would have allowed people to be sent to mainland China for trial but rapidly evolved into calls for full democracy, posing the biggest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. They have at times forced the closure of government, businesses and schools as police used tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannon in response to petrol bombs and rocks. The run-up to the election was marked by attacks on candidates, with one stabbed and wounded and another having part of his ear bitten off. Ming Lee, 26, who works in event production, said she hoped the higher turnout would benefit the pro-democracy camp that is battling some seats that were once uncontested and dominated by pro-Beijing candidates. "I hope this vote can counter the voice of the pro-establishment, so as to bring in more voices from the democrats," she said. "The social problems encouraged people to vote and to focus on political issues." The district councils control some spending and decide issues such as recycling and public health. A record 1,104 candidates were vying for 452 seats and a record 4.1 million people have enrolled to vote. If the pro-democracy campaigners gain control, they could secure six seats on Hong Kong's semi-representative Legislative Council and 117 seats on the 1,200-member panel that selects its chief executive. Jimmy Sham, a candidate for the Civil Human Rights Front, which organised some of the anti-government rallies, said: "We don't know yet, at the end of the day, if the democrats can win a majority. But I hope our Hong Kong citizens can vote for the future of Hong Kong." Restaurant manager Jeremy Chan, 55, saw the elections as offering Beijing supporters a chance to share their opinions. "They believe they are fighting for democracy, fighting for Hong Kong, but the rioters only listen to what they want to hear," Chan said, citing vandalism of businesses seen as pro-Beijing. "Freedom of speech is lost." University challenge Sunday was also the seventh day of a stand-off at Polytechnic University, whose campus has been surrounded by police as some protesters hid out on the grounds. "The district council election is almost like a referendum on recent months of social activity," said a protester clad in a red university tracksuit, his face covered by a red mask. "My personal liberty to vote has been violated," said the protester, who fears being seized by police if he tries to escape from the campus. Demonstrators are angry at what they see as Chinese meddling in the freedoms promised to the former British colony when it returned to Chinese rule in 1997. They say they are also responding to perceived police brutality. China denies interfering and says it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula for the autonomy of Hong Kong. Police say they have shown restraint in the face of potentially deadly attacks. Electoral affairs chief Barnabus Fung said there had been 3,638 complaints on Sunday, mostly related to the long queues at polling stations, which he put down to the large numbers voting. Well-known pro-democracy advocate Alexandra "Grandma" Wong, who was detained in the city of Shenzhen over the border from Hong Kong in August, said this was "the day that we are longing for". "Because I was detained in Shenzhen, my ballot has become a wasted paper. This breaks my heart. Please help add oil for me and vote. All the Best!!! Be Safe!!!" she wrote according to a message on the Lennon Wall protest movement Facebook page. It was not clear for how long Wong, who became a fixture at protests carrying a large British Union Jack flag, was detained.

Hong Kong council polls close amid record turnout; locals hope for full democracy, peace and calm

Election result to bring change in Hong Kong? Watch video to know more.

Election result to bring change in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong voters at some polling stations for district council elections were <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-pro-democrats-seek-to-hit-government-at-district-polls-264145">queuing up by the hundreds on Sunday morning</a>, citing concerns voting could be halted later in the day after six months of sometimes violent unrest in the Chinese-controlled city.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/barred-election-candidate-joshua-wong-urges-hong-kong-to-vote-to-show-discontent-264141">Brutal attacks on candidates</a> have thrust Hong Kong's lowest-tier government onto the international stage, with the district elections seen as an important barometer of support for Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam's embattled administration.

Many see the polls as a "referendum" on support for the anti-government protest movement, coming as the city grapples with its biggest political crisis in decades.

A stand-off at Polytechnic University on Sunday entered its seventh day, with the campus surrounded by police as some protesters remained in classrooms and first-aid workers roamed the campus.

As voting got underway at 7:30 am (2330 GMT on Saturday), Reuters witnesses said there was only a small police presence, in contrast to earlier reports that riot police planned to guard all polling stations and almost all officers in the 31,000 strong force would be on duty.

Kevin Lai, a 45-year-old IT worker near the front of the line outside Wong Tai Sin primary school in Kowloon, said he came early over fears he wouldn't be able to vote later.

"Some people are afraid the elections will be stopped by unpredictable reasons — maybe some protests," he said as hundreds of voters in the landlocked neighbourhood of housing estates wound around a block waiting their turn.

"We have to show we stand with Hong Kong," Lai said. "Most of the councillors stand with the government and are not helping Hong Kong."

Chan, 31, who was in front of the queue at the Fung Kam Sports Centre in Yuen Long, a rural district near the Chinese border, said she came early because she was expecting a big turnout.

"I have not seen an election like this before, but because of the situation it is important to vote .. .and I know many people feel like me," said Chan, who works in sales.

She said she grew up in Yuen Long but did not want to reveal any political allegiances. As she spoke, election officials prepared the ballot box in the middle of a basketball court. A lone police officer watched them.

The Fung Kam polling station is one of the closest to the Yuen Long railway station where suspected triad gangsters attacked anti-government protesters and commuters on July 21.

A record 1,104 people are running for 452 district seats and a record 4.1 million Hong Kong people have enrolled to vote for district councillors, who control some local spending, and whose daily decisionmaking spans a range of neighbourhood issues including recycling, transport and public healthcare.

Beijing-backed Lam cast her ballot at 8:30 a.m. in front of television cameras.

Some of the seats that were once uncontested, and dominated by pro-Beijing candidates, are now being fought for by young pro-democracy activists.

One of the candidates running in Sha Tin is Jimmy Sham of Civil Human Rights Front, organiser of some of the mass anti-government rallies in recent months who was beaten by men with hammers in October.

The protests started over a now-withdrawn bill that would have allowed people to be sent to China for trial, but which soon evolved into calls for full democracy, posing the biggest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012.

Hong Kong voters at some polling stations for district council elections were queuing up by the hundreds on Sunday morning, citing concerns voting could be halted later in the day after six months of sometimes violent unrest in the Chinese-controlled city.

Hong Kong voters at some polling stations for district council elections were queuing up by the hundreds on Sunday morning, citing concerns voting could be halted later in the day after six months of sometimes violent unrest in the Chinese-controlled city. Brutal attacks on candidates have thrust Hong Kong's lowest-tier government onto the international stage, with the district elections seen as an important barometer of support for Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam's embattled administration. Many see the polls as a "referendum" on support for the anti-government protest movement, coming as the city grapples with its biggest political crisis in decades. A stand-off at Polytechnic University on Sunday entered its seventh day, with the campus surrounded by police as some protesters remained in classrooms and first-aid workers roamed the campus. As voting got underway at 7:30 am (2330 GMT on Saturday), Reuters witnesses said there was only a small police presence, in contrast to earlier reports that riot police planned to guard all polling stations and almost all officers in the 31,000 strong force would be on duty. Kevin Lai, a 45-year-old IT worker near the front of the line outside Wong Tai Sin primary school in Kowloon, said he came early over fears he wouldn't be able to vote later. "Some people are afraid the elections will be stopped by unpredictable reasons — maybe some protests," he said as hundreds of voters in the landlocked neighbourhood of housing estates wound around a block waiting their turn. "We have to show we stand with Hong Kong," Lai said. "Most of the councillors stand with the government and are not helping Hong Kong." Chan, 31, who was in front of the queue at the Fung Kam Sports Centre in Yuen Long, a rural district near the Chinese border, said she came early because she was expecting a big turnout. "I have not seen an election like this before, but because of the situation it is important to vote .. .and I know many people feel like me," said Chan, who works in sales. She said she grew up in Yuen Long but did not want to reveal any political allegiances. As she spoke, election officials prepared the ballot box in the middle of a basketball court. A lone police officer watched them. The Fung Kam polling station is one of the closest to the Yuen Long railway station where suspected triad gangsters attacked anti-government protesters and commuters on July 21. A record 1,104 people are running for 452 district seats and a record 4.1 million Hong Kong people have enrolled to vote for district councillors, who control some local spending, and whose daily decisionmaking spans a range of neighbourhood issues including recycling, transport and public healthcare. Beijing-backed Lam cast her ballot at 8:30 a.m. in front of television cameras. Some of the seats that were once uncontested, and dominated by pro-Beijing candidates, are now being fought for by young pro-democracy activists. One of the candidates running in Sha Tin is Jimmy Sham of Civil Human Rights Front, organiser of some of the mass anti-government rallies in recent months who was beaten by men with hammers in October. The protests started over a now-withdrawn bill that would have allowed people to be sent to China for trial, but which soon evolved into calls for full democracy, posing the biggest popular challenge to Chinese President Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012.

Hong Kong voters queue up early over fears of later clashes

Hong Kong: Record numbers vote in district council polls. Watch video to know more.

Hong Kong: Record numbers vote in district council polls

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Soldiers in the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) practised drills at an army barracks bordering Hong Kong's Polytechnic University on Saturday (November 23) according to a Reuters witness.

The soldiers carried shields and wore helmets with face guards, and were glimpsed from a high building marching in formation on an inner parade ground not visible from the road.

PLA soldiers have not publicly engaged in anti-riot efforts on the streets of Hong Kong but such drills suggest a high degree of preparedness amid the current protests.

Both Chinese and Hong Kong leaders have repeatedly said that Hong Kong police can handle the situation but Beijing has more than doubled the number of troops in the city since late August, with up to 12,000 on bases scattered across the territory.

An uneasy calm settled over Hong Kong on Saturday as the city prepared to go to the polls for local elections seen as a referendum on months of anti-government protests, after weeks of especially violent clashes between police and demonstrators.

The protests snowballed from June after years of resentment over what many residents see as Chinese meddling in freedoms promised to Hong Kong when the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

Soldiers in the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) practised drills at an army barracks bordering Hong Kong's Polytechnic University on Saturday (November 23) according to a Reuters witness.

Soldiers in the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) practised drills at an army barracks bordering Hong Kong's Polytechnic University on Saturday (November 23) according to a Reuters witness. The soldiers carried shields and wore helmets with face guards, and were glimpsed from a high building marching in formation on an inner parade ground not visible from the road. PLA soldiers have not publicly engaged in anti-riot efforts on the streets of Hong Kong but such drills suggest a high degree of preparedness amid the current protests. Both Chinese and Hong Kong leaders have repeatedly said that Hong Kong police can handle the situation but Beijing has more than doubled the number of troops in the city since late August, with up to 12,000 on bases scattered across the territory. An uneasy calm settled over Hong Kong on Saturday as the city prepared to go to the polls for local elections seen as a referendum on months of anti-government protests, after weeks of especially violent clashes between police and demonstrators. The protests snowballed from June after years of resentment over what many residents see as Chinese meddling in freedoms promised to Hong Kong when the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

Chinese soldiers in riot gear practice drills near Hong Kong university: Witness

An uneasy calm settled over Hong Kong on Saturday as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/university-campus-siege-nears-end-as-hong-kong-gears-up-for-election-263981">city prepared to go to the polls for local elections</a> seen as a referendum on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-would-be-obliterated-in-14-minutes-if-not-for-me-donald-trump-263961">months of anti-government protests</a>, after weeks of especially violent clashes between police and demonstrators.

On the grounds of the besieged Polytechnic University on the Kowloon peninsula, a dwindling number of protesters desperately sought a way out and others vowed not to surrender, days after some of the worst violence since anti-government demonstrations escalated in June.

One student protester who escaped the police cordon around the university without being arrested said on Saturday he had not expected the elections to go ahead.

"I don’t feel optimistic about the outcome at all," he said.

The city is under tight security as a record 1,104 people gear up to run for 452 district council seats in Sunday's elections.

A record 4.1 million Hong Kong people, from a population of 7.4 million, have enrolled to vote, spurred in part by registration campaigns during months of protests.

For the first time, riot police will guard all polling stations in the city and almost all officers in the 31,000-strong force will be on duty, the South China Morning Post reported on Friday, citing a senior police source.

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The source told the newspaper that the officers would seek to minimise their presence to avoid worrying voters.

Asked about the report, the police department would say only that it had been liaising with other departments to provide assistance, arrange "appropriate police force", and ensure that the election was carried out smoothly and in an orderly manner.

At a Chinese People's Liberation Army barracks that borders Polytechnic University, meanwhile, dozens of soldiers in riot gear were seen practicing drills, according to a Reuters witness.

The soldiers carried shields and wore helmets with face guards, and were glimpsed from a high building marching in formation on an inner parade ground not visible from the road.

PLA soldiers have not publicly engaged in anti-riot efforts on the streets of Hong Kong but such drills suggest a high degree of preparedness amid the current protests.

Both Chinese and Hong Kong leaders have repeatedly said that Hong Kong police can handle the situation but Beijing has more than doubled the number of troops in the city since late August, with up to 12,000 on bases scattered across the territory.

The protests snowballed from June after years of resentment over what many residents see as Chinese meddling in freedoms promised to Hong Kong when the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997.

Beijing has said it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula by which Hong Kong is governed. It denies meddling in the affairs of Hong Kong, an Asian financial hub, and accuses foreign governments of stirring up trouble.

However, Australia's Age newspaper reported on Saturday that an apparent Chinese intelligence service agent is seeking asylum in Australia after saying he had details on Beijing's political interference in Hong Kong, Taiwan and Australia.

Young pro-democracy activists are running in some of the seats that were once uncontested and dominated by pro-Beijing candidates.

One pro-democracy candidate for the Wan Chai district council, Chris Chan, said the election would reflect public opinion after the upheaval of recent months.

"It is time for us to calm down and tell the government in a civilized way what we want to do," he said.

Campus under siege

One protester holding out at Polytechnic University, Ah Chung, was clad in a face mask and a red Polytechnic University track suit as he vowed to stay for the duration.

"I’ll continue to stay here, but hopefully not forever," he said with a touch of humour.

Few protesters were still visible on the campus, and a visiting lawmaker said their number was so small that there is no need for the police to enter the campus.

Many of the remaining protesters were in hiding, fearful of possible arrest and wary of those urging surrender, said Woo Kwok Wang, the 22-year-old acting president of the university's student union.

Woo said he had been on the campus since Wednesday to provide support for the students, and would only leave when he felt his help was no longer needed.

A social worker who gave his name only as Sendon said he had crossed paths with four protesters on Saturday and was concerned about their mental state.

"They’ve been in this highly stressful environment for so long, over 120 hours, and they have no easy way to release this stress," he said.

About 1,000 people have been arrested or registered by police in the university siege, about 300 of them younger than 18.

Police have set up high plastic barricades and a fence on the perimeter of the campus. Towards midday, officers appeared at ease, allowing citizens to mill about the edges of the cordon as neighbourhood shops opened for business.

Some roads next to the campus had reopened by Saturday afternoon.

Scores of construction workers worked at the mouth of the Cross-Harbour Tunnel, closed for more than a week after it was first blockaded, to repair toll booths smashed by protesters and clear debris from approach roads.

An uneasy calm settled over Hong Kong on Saturday as the city prepared to go to the polls for local elections seen as a referendum on months of anti-government protests, after weeks of especially violent clashes between police and demonstrators.

An uneasy calm settled over Hong Kong on Saturday as the city prepared to go to the polls for local elections seen as a referendum on months of anti-government protests, after weeks of especially violent clashes between police and demonstrators. On the grounds of the besieged Polytechnic University on the Kowloon peninsula, a dwindling number of protesters desperately sought a way out and others vowed not to surrender, days after some of the worst violence since anti-government demonstrations escalated in June. One student protester who escaped the police cordon around the university without being arrested said on Saturday he had not expected the elections to go ahead. "I don’t feel optimistic about the outcome at all," he said. The city is under tight security as a record 1,104 people gear up to run for 452 district council seats in Sunday's elections. A record 4.1 million Hong Kong people, from a population of 7.4 million, have enrolled to vote, spurred in part by registration campaigns during months of protests. For the first time, riot police will guard all polling stations in the city and almost all officers in the 31,000-strong force will be on duty, the South China Morning Post reported on Friday, citing a senior police source. × The source told the newspaper that the officers would seek to minimise their presence to avoid worrying voters. Asked about the report, the police department would say only that it had been liaising with other departments to provide assistance, arrange "appropriate police force", and ensure that the election was carried out smoothly and in an orderly manner. At a Chinese People's Liberation Army barracks that borders Polytechnic University, meanwhile, dozens of soldiers in riot gear were seen practicing drills, according to a Reuters witness. The soldiers carried shields and wore helmets with face guards, and were glimpsed from a high building marching in formation on an inner parade ground not visible from the road. PLA soldiers have not publicly engaged in anti-riot efforts on the streets of Hong Kong but such drills suggest a high degree of preparedness amid the current protests. Both Chinese and Hong Kong leaders have repeatedly said that Hong Kong police can handle the situation but Beijing has more than doubled the number of troops in the city since late August, with up to 12,000 on bases scattered across the territory. The protests snowballed from June after years of resentment over what many residents see as Chinese meddling in freedoms promised to Hong Kong when the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997. Beijing has said it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula by which Hong Kong is governed. It denies meddling in the affairs of Hong Kong, an Asian financial hub, and accuses foreign governments of stirring up trouble. However, Australia's Age newspaper reported on Saturday that an apparent Chinese intelligence service agent is seeking asylum in Australia after saying he had details on Beijing's political interference in Hong Kong, Taiwan and Australia. Young pro-democracy activists are running in some of the seats that were once uncontested and dominated by pro-Beijing candidates. One pro-democracy candidate for the Wan Chai district council, Chris Chan, said the election would reflect public opinion after the upheaval of recent months. "It is time for us to calm down and tell the government in a civilized way what we want to do," he said. Campus under siege One protester holding out at Polytechnic University, Ah Chung, was clad in a face mask and a red Polytechnic University track suit as he vowed to stay for the duration. "I’ll continue to stay here, but hopefully not forever," he said with a touch of humour. Few protesters were still visible on the campus, and a visiting lawmaker said their number was so small that there is no need for the police to enter the campus. Many of the remaining protesters were in hiding, fearful of possible arrest and wary of those urging surrender, said Woo Kwok Wang, the 22-year-old acting president of the university's student union. Woo said he had been on the campus since Wednesday to provide support for the students, and would only leave when he felt his help was no longer needed. A social worker who gave his name only as Sendon said he had crossed paths with four protesters on Saturday and was concerned about their mental state. "They’ve been in this highly stressful environment for so long, over 120 hours, and they have no easy way to release this stress," he said. About 1,000 people have been arrested or registered by police in the university siege, about 300 of them younger than 18. Police have set up high plastic barricades and a fence on the perimeter of the campus. Towards midday, officers appeared at ease, allowing citizens to mill about the edges of the cordon as neighbourhood shops opened for business. Some roads next to the campus had reopened by Saturday afternoon. Scores of construction workers worked at the mouth of the Cross-Harbour Tunnel, closed for more than a week after it was first blockaded, to repair toll booths smashed by protesters and clear debris from approach roads.

'Time to calm down': Hong Kong protests simmer ahead of local elections

Hong Kong: Inside Polytechnic University, a few dozen holdouts plot their next move. Watch video to know more.

Hong Kong: Inside Polytechnic University, a few dozen holdouts plot their next move

US President Donald Trump said Friday he had saved <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-university-seige-8-students-arrested-as-protests-fizzle-out-263764">Hong Kong </a>from being destroyed by persuading Chinese President Xi Jinping to hold off on sending in troops to crush its pro-democracy movement.

"If it weren't for me, Hong Kong would have been obliterated in 14 minutes," Trump said in a scattershot early morning interview with Fox News.

Trump's comments come as he mulls signing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-house-passes-hong-kong-rights-bill-president-trump-expected-to-sign-263483">congressionally-approved legislation </a>in support of the pro-democracy activists -- or bow to Beijing's threats of retaliation if the law is enacted.

Asked whether he would veto the legislation, green-lit by an overwhelming margin in Congress on Wednesday, Trump equivocated.

"I'll tell you we have to stand with Hong Kong but I'm also standing with President Xi. He is a friend of mine he is an incredible guy," Trump said. "I would like to see them work it out. We have to see them work it out," he added.

Trump cast his relationship with Xi as the bulwark keeping China from moving against the pro-democracy movement that has rocked Hong Kong during almost six months of increasingly violent protests.

He added that a "million soldiers standing outside of Hong Kong are not going only because I asked him: 'Please don't do that. You will be making a big mistake. It will have a tremendous negative impact on the trade deal.'"

Trump acknowledged that the tension over the former British colony -- handed back to China in 1997 -- has complicated efforts to strike a trade deal with Beijing, a top Trump priority and source of economic uncertainty as Washington heads into an election year.

US and Chinese trade negotiators are "potentially very close" to a deal, he said.

'Fightback'&nbsp;

Earlier in Beijing, Xi met a group of former US officials and other foreign dignitaries, including Richard Nixon's Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, ex-Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson and Trump's erstwhile economic advisor Gary Cohn.

"As we always said we don't want to start the trade war but we are not afraid," Xi said. "When necessary we will fightback but we have been working actively to try not to have a trade war."

The Hong Kong bill awaiting Trump's signature supports human rights and democracy in the city while threatening to revoke its special economic status.

A separate measure bans the sale of tear gas, rubber bullets and other equipment used by the security forces to suppress pro-democracy protests.

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi denounced the bill as "naked interference" in China's internal affairs and vowed retaliatory measures.

The law's overwhelming passage, first by a unanimous vote in the Senate followed by a 417-1 vote in House of Representatives on Wednesday, underscored the rare bipartisan support for the measure in the US Congress. 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said Friday he had saved Hong Kong from being destroyed by persuading Chinese President Xi Jinping to hold off on sending in troops to crush its pro-democracy movement.

US President Donald Trump said Friday he had saved Hong Kong from being destroyed by persuading Chinese President Xi Jinping to hold off on sending in troops to crush its pro-democracy movement. "If it weren't for me, Hong Kong would have been obliterated in 14 minutes," Trump said in a scattershot early morning interview with Fox News. Trump's comments come as he mulls signing congressionally-approved legislation in support of the pro-democracy activists -- or bow to Beijing's threats of retaliation if the law is enacted. Asked whether he would veto the legislation, green-lit by an overwhelming margin in Congress on Wednesday, Trump equivocated. "I'll tell you we have to stand with Hong Kong but I'm also standing with President Xi. He is a friend of mine he is an incredible guy," Trump said. "I would like to see them work it out. We have to see them work it out," he added. Trump cast his relationship with Xi as the bulwark keeping China from moving against the pro-democracy movement that has rocked Hong Kong during almost six months of increasingly violent protests. He added that a "million soldiers standing outside of Hong Kong are not going only because I asked him: 'Please don't do that. You will be making a big mistake. It will have a tremendous negative impact on the trade deal.'" Trump acknowledged that the tension over the former British colony -- handed back to China in 1997 -- has complicated efforts to strike a trade deal with Beijing, a top Trump priority and source of economic uncertainty as Washington heads into an election year. US and Chinese trade negotiators are "potentially very close" to a deal, he said. 'Fightback' Earlier in Beijing, Xi met a group of former US officials and other foreign dignitaries, including Richard Nixon's Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, ex-Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson and Trump's erstwhile economic advisor Gary Cohn. "As we always said we don't want to start the trade war but we are not afraid," Xi said. "When necessary we will fightback but we have been working actively to try not to have a trade war." The Hong Kong bill awaiting Trump's signature supports human rights and democracy in the city while threatening to revoke its special economic status. A separate measure bans the sale of tear gas, rubber bullets and other equipment used by the security forces to suppress pro-democracy protests. China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi denounced the bill as "naked interference" in China's internal affairs and vowed retaliatory measures. The law's overwhelming passage, first by a unanimous vote in the Senate followed by a 417-1 vote in House of Representatives on Wednesday, underscored the rare bipartisan support for the measure in the US Congress.

Hong Kong would be 'obliterated in 14 minutes' if not for me: Donald Trump

The Hong Kong police are <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/too-scared-to-escape-isolated-protesters-hold-out-on-trashed-hong-kong-campus-263740">pursuing arrests as students continue to hole up</a> in the ravaged Polytechnic University in the Kowloon peninsula. Today, eight students were arrested after they surrendered to the riot police who had surrounded the campus.

The siege at the university on the Kowloon peninsula appeared to be nearing an end with the number of protesters dwindling to less than 100, days after some of the worst violence since anti-government demonstrations escalated in June.

The mood on the nearly deserted campus was rather calm today after a night of protesting roaming the grounds looking for undercover officers. Others hid, terrified they would be arrested by infiltrators.

"We are feeling a little tired. All of us feel tired but we will not give up trying to get out," said a 23-year-old demonstrator who gave his name only as Shiba as he ate noodles with egg and sausage in the protesters' canteen.

"We spent yesterday trying to find ways to get outside but failed, so we came for some breakfast," he said.

A Reuters reporter saw six black-clad protesters holding hands walk towards police lines, while a first aid worker said two more surrendered later.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senior-china-diplomat-says-beijing-will-never-allow-anyone-to-destroy-hong-kongs-stability-263609">Demonstrators are angry at what they see as Chinese meddling</a> in freedoms promised to Hong Kong when the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997 and are calling for full democracy, among other demands.

Watch: China slams US'&nbsp;Bill on Hong Kong

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-china-slams-us-bill-on-hong-kong-263458/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-trying-to-settle-university-scuffle-peacefully-one-country-two-systems-to-be-upheld-263534">Beijing has said it is committed to the "one country, two systems"</a> formula under which Hong Kong is governed. It denies meddling in Hong Kong affairs and accuses foreign governments, including Britain and the United States, of stirring up trouble.

One older protester, who estimated only around 30 demonstrators remained, said some had given up looking for escape routes and were now making new weapons to protect themselves in case police stormed the campus.

The Chinese-ruled city has enjoyed two days and nights of relative calm ahead of district council elections that are due to take place on Sunday.

The government has said it is committed to proceeding with the elections and is monitoring the situation to ensure the election can be held safely.

All polling stations will be guarded by armed officers in riot gear for the first time in the history of local elections, the South China Morning Post reported.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Hong Kong police are pursuing arrests as students continue to hole up in the ravaged Polytechnic University in the Kowloon peninsula. Today, eight students were arrested after they surrendered to the riot police who had surrounded the campus.

The Hong Kong police are pursuing arrests as students continue to hole up in the ravaged Polytechnic University in the Kowloon peninsula. Today, eight students were arrested after they surrendered to the riot police who had surrounded the campus. The siege at the university on the Kowloon peninsula appeared to be nearing an end with the number of protesters dwindling to less than 100, days after some of the worst violence since anti-government demonstrations escalated in June. The mood on the nearly deserted campus was rather calm today after a night of protesting roaming the grounds looking for undercover officers. Others hid, terrified they would be arrested by infiltrators. "We are feeling a little tired. All of us feel tired but we will not give up trying to get out," said a 23-year-old demonstrator who gave his name only as Shiba as he ate noodles with egg and sausage in the protesters' canteen. "We spent yesterday trying to find ways to get outside but failed, so we came for some breakfast," he said. A Reuters reporter saw six black-clad protesters holding hands walk towards police lines, while a first aid worker said two more surrendered later. Demonstrators are angry at what they see as Chinese meddling in freedoms promised to Hong Kong when the former British colony returned to Chinese rule in 1997 and are calling for full democracy, among other demands. Watch: China slams US' Bill on Hong Kong Beijing has said it is committed to the "one country, two systems" formula under which Hong Kong is governed. It denies meddling in Hong Kong affairs and accuses foreign governments, including Britain and the United States, of stirring up trouble. One older protester, who estimated only around 30 demonstrators remained, said some had given up looking for escape routes and were now making new weapons to protect themselves in case police stormed the campus. The Chinese-ruled city has enjoyed two days and nights of relative calm ahead of district council elections that are due to take place on Sunday. The government has said it is committed to proceeding with the elections and is monitoring the situation to ensure the election can be held safely. All polling stations will be guarded by armed officers in riot gear for the first time in the history of local elections, the South China Morning Post reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Hong Kong university siege: 8 students arrested after surrender

Watch in WION Dispatch: Hong Kong's truly democratic polls this weekend. Watch this video as WION's Special Correspondent of Washington Times, Ryan Ho Kilpatrick tells you more on this. #WIONDispatch

WION Dispatch: Hong Kong's truly democratic polls this weekend

The ongoing district elections in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-university-seige-8-students-arrested-as-protests-fizzle-out-263764">Hong Kong</a> have been dangerous owing to the anti-government protests in the city.

Polling stations are due to open across Hong Kong on Sunday morning as the semi-autonomous city of 7.5 million votes for district councillors, in a ballot seen as a gauge of the popularity of Chief Executive Carrie Lam and the pro-Beijing government.

First-time candidate Kwan Siu Lun says campaigning for this weekend's district elections in Hong Kong has been a dangerous business in the white heat of the city's political crisis.

In normal times, district elections are tame, hyper-local affairs dominated by candidates allied to the China-backed government with a remit over rubbish collections and planning decisions.&nbsp;

But with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/too-scared-to-escape-isolated-protesters-hold-out-on-trashed-hong-kong-campus-263740">protests coursing through the city</a>, pro-democracy candidates are hoping for a dramatic swing in their favour.

The&nbsp;protest movement needs a big turnout,&nbsp;it was 47 per cent the last time around in 2015,&nbsp;to give the unpopular government a bloody nose at the ballot box.

The signs point in their favour with 4.1 million Hong Kongers registering to vote,&nbsp;nearly 400,000 more than in 2015.

There are no disruptive actions planned so far for Sunday, while a "HOW TO CAST A VOTE" airdrop is urging young voters to turn up early, bring their ID and "avoid wearing black shirts and masks" or accidentally spoiling ballots.

In a city beset by violence, candidate Kwan says he has tried to tip-toe around the conflicting political opinions.

"I try to focus on local community issues," says the 38-year-old architect running as an independent on the pro-democracy side&nbsp;in his working-class constituency of Hung Hom.

"But of course some voters ask what my political views are... some people have sworn at me and thrown my leaflets to the ground."

The poll to choose 452 councillors across 18 districts is the closest voters in Hong Kong get to direct representation.

By contrast, members of the city's legislature are elected by a combination of the popular vote and industry groups stacked with Beijing loyalists, while the city's chief executive is chosen by a similarly pro-establishment committee.&nbsp;

This year it is "a kind of referendum" on the Hong Kong government's handling "of the riots over the extradition (bill), democracy and the conflicts between the people and the police", says political analyst Dixon Sing.

Watch: Hong Kong police storm university

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fineprint-hong-kong-police-storm-university-262997/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

'Deeply touched'&nbsp;

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senior-china-diplomat-says-beijing-will-never-allow-anyone-to-destroy-hong-kongs-stability-263609">political unrest of recent months</a> has overshadowed what would normally be a calm campaign.

A pro-democracy candidate had his ear bitten off, while 17 other candidates of all stripes -- some seeking re-election -- have been arrested over protest-related activities.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, election authorities banned democracy activist Joshua Wong from running in the district poll over his political views espousing "self-determination" for the Chinese-ruled city.

Kwan says he did not plan to run. Then protests unfurled on June 9 against an extradition bill to China. They have not stopped since. &nbsp;

"I never thought about running before... I have a day job and I have a new-born baby," he told AFP, the pavement dug up around him by protesters seeking projectiles to hurl at police.

But "I felt deeply touched" by the protest movement, he said, explaining he sees district power as a way to help young people.

The challenges of campaigning during a political crisis cuts across colours.

Michelle Tang, an independent candidate affiliated with the pro-establishment camp, is seeking re-election in her constituency of Tsim Sha Tsui East.

The now-trashed Hong Kong Polytechnic University campus stands in her district, scene of an ongoing siege of pro-democracy protesters by police.

"Some shops have refused to put up my poster even though the owners privately support me" she said, explaining they are worried about provoking the protesters.

In the hurly-burly of a political crisis, it is also hard to predict who is likely to triumph in Sunday's poll.

But there is a strategic imperative for a protest movement that has brought millions onto the street to also flood the polling booths.

Under the <a href="wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-trying-to-settle-university-scuffle-peacefully-one-country-two-systems-to-be-upheld-263534">city's convoluted China-scripted electoral system</a>, seats on the district council could translate into 117 votes in the Election Committee,&nbsp;the mechanism by which a Chief Executive is chosen.

A big win at the grassroots level in the city's most free vote could help mobilise the pro-democracy bloc for next year's parliamentary elections, says analyst Sing.

Back on the city's febrile streets, candidates have the choice of fending off barrages of abuse or running muted campaigns.

"Some pro-establishment voters come to me and call me a 'cockroach', or a 'rioter'," says Isaac Ho, a pro-democracy candidate&nbsp;running for the first time in a government-allied stronghold in Kowloon.&nbsp;

"I just answer with a smile," he says.

The ongoing district elections in Hong Kong have been dangerous owing to the anti-government protests in the city. Polling stations are due to open across Hong Kong on Sunday morning as the semi-autonomous city of 7.

The ongoing district elections in Hong Kong have been dangerous owing to the anti-government protests in the city. Polling stations are due to open across Hong Kong on Sunday morning as the semi-autonomous city of 7.5 million votes for district councillors, in a ballot seen as a gauge of the popularity of Chief Executive Carrie Lam and the pro-Beijing government. First-time candidate Kwan Siu Lun says campaigning for this weekend's district elections in Hong Kong has been a dangerous business in the white heat of the city's political crisis. In normal times, district elections are tame, hyper-local affairs dominated by candidates allied to the China-backed government with a remit over rubbish collections and planning decisions. But with protests coursing through the city, pro-democracy candidates are hoping for a dramatic swing in their favour. The protest movement needs a big turnout, it was 47 per cent the last time around in 2015, to give the unpopular government a bloody nose at the ballot box. The signs point in their favour with 4.1 million Hong Kongers registering to vote, nearly 400,000 more than in 2015. There are no disruptive actions planned so far for Sunday, while a "HOW TO CAST A VOTE" airdrop is urging young voters to turn up early, bring their ID and "avoid wearing black shirts and masks" or accidentally spoiling ballots. In a city beset by violence, candidate Kwan says he has tried to tip-toe around the conflicting political opinions. "I try to focus on local community issues," says the 38-year-old architect running as an independent on the pro-democracy side in his working-class constituency of Hung Hom. "But of course some voters ask what my political views are... some people have sworn at me and thrown my leaflets to the ground." The poll to choose 452 councillors across 18 districts is the closest voters in Hong Kong get to direct representation. By contrast, members of the city's legislature are elected by a combination of the popular vote and industry groups stacked with Beijing loyalists, while the city's chief executive is chosen by a similarly pro-establishment committee. This year it is "a kind of referendum" on the Hong Kong government's handling "of the riots over the extradition (bill), democracy and the conflicts between the people and the police", says political analyst Dixon Sing. Watch: Hong Kong police storm university 'Deeply touched' The political unrest of recent months has overshadowed what would normally be a calm campaign. A pro-democracy candidate had his ear bitten off, while 17 other candidates of all stripes -- some seeking re-election -- have been arrested over protest-related activities. Meanwhile, election authorities banned democracy activist Joshua Wong from running in the district poll over his political views espousing "self-determination" for the Chinese-ruled city. Kwan says he did not plan to run. Then protests unfurled on June 9 against an extradition bill to China. They have not stopped since. "I never thought about running before... I have a day job and I have a new-born baby," he told AFP, the pavement dug up around him by protesters seeking projectiles to hurl at police. But "I felt deeply touched" by the protest movement, he said, explaining he sees district power as a way to help young people. The challenges of campaigning during a political crisis cuts across colours. Michelle Tang, an independent candidate affiliated with the pro-establishment camp, is seeking re-election in her constituency of Tsim Sha Tsui East. The now-trashed Hong Kong Polytechnic University campus stands in her district, scene of an ongoing siege of pro-democracy protesters by police. "Some shops have refused to put up my poster even though the owners privately support me" she said, explaining they are worried about provoking the protesters. In the hurly-burly of a political crisis, it is also hard to predict who is likely to triumph in Sunday's poll. But there is a strategic imperative for a protest movement that has brought millions onto the street to also flood the polling booths. Under the city's convoluted China-scripted electoral system, seats on the district council could translate into 117 votes in the Election Committee, the mechanism by which a Chief Executive is chosen. A big win at the grassroots level in the city's most free vote could help mobilise the pro-democracy bloc for next year's parliamentary elections, says analyst Sing. Back on the city's febrile streets, candidates have the choice of fending off barrages of abuse or running muted campaigns. "Some pro-establishment voters come to me and call me a 'cockroach', or a 'rioter'," says Isaac Ho, a pro-democracy candidate running for the first time in a government-allied stronghold in Kowloon. "I just answer with a smile," he says.

Hong Kong set to vote for district councillors amid anti-government protests

The Hong Kong police said on Wednesday that they intend to stick to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-house-passes-hong-kong-rights-bill-president-trump-expected-to-sign-263483">peaceful solutions</a> to the standoff at&nbsp;the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU).

Ho Yeung-sing, Chief Superintendent and Commander of Yau Tsim District of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, made the statement outside the PolyU campus, calling protesters to drop their weapons and leave the campus in a peaceful manner.

Additionally, Justice Secretary Teresa Cheng Yeuk-wah, said Hong Kong Special Administrative Region will uphold the ‘one country, two systems’ principle and will work to rebuild its image, during a press conference inside the Chinese embassy in London Wednesday.

The chief superintendent said the police that they had names of around 300 people under the age of 18 who had left the university. He added that while 700 protesters&nbsp;had been arrested, there was still a small group which was refusing to come out.

He said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-students-sewer-escape-thwarted-as-rows-with-uk-us-grow-263389">efforts are being made to clear obstructions</a> and police are keeping maintaining communication with the leaders of different groups. He noted ambulances and first-aid staff are allowed to do their work, and police are now waiting for the remaining protesters to leave the campus voluntarily.

Watch: US House passes Hong Kong rights bill

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-house-passes-hong-kong-rights-bills-263487/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

''Apart from peaceful means, we also adopt a feasible approach to solve the problem. In this regard, we made a special arrangement for underage people. As long as they give up their weapons and leave the campus in a peaceful manner, we do our best in this regard, but we'll record their personal details and then let them go. But, of course, we will reserve the rights to pursue a case later," said Ho.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-university-protest-fizzling-out-as-over-1000-arrested-by-authorities-263246">protesters gathered at the PolyU campus</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;November 11, committing violent acts such as hurling gasoline bombs and shooting arrows at police and government supporters.

"Increasing violence in Hong Kong has continuously affected our core values and the international community's confidence in Hong Kong. This impacts Hong Kong's rule of law. Only through fortifying the implementation of the 'one country, two systems' principle by ourselves and rebuild our home, can we see the Hong Kong that we know once again," said Cheng.

Initially, the protests were triggered by a controversial bill that would have allowed extradition to China, but eventually morphed into a full-fledged movement asking for democracy in Hong Kong.

(With inputs from Reuters)

The Hong Kong police said on Wednesday that they intend to stick to peaceful solutions to the standoff at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). Ho Yeung-sing, Chief Superintendent and Commander of Yau Tsim District of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, made the statement outside the PolyU campus, calling protesters to drop their weapons and leave the campus in a peaceful manner.

The Hong Kong police said on Wednesday that they intend to stick to peaceful solutions to the standoff at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). Ho Yeung-sing, Chief Superintendent and Commander of Yau Tsim District of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, made the statement outside the PolyU campus, calling protesters to drop their weapons and leave the campus in a peaceful manner. Additionally, Justice Secretary Teresa Cheng Yeuk-wah, said Hong Kong Special Administrative Region will uphold the ‘one country, two systems’ principle and will work to rebuild its image, during a press conference inside the Chinese embassy in London Wednesday. The chief superintendent said the police that they had names of around 300 people under the age of 18 who had left the university. He added that while 700 protesters had been arrested, there was still a small group which was refusing to come out. He said efforts are being made to clear obstructions and police are keeping maintaining communication with the leaders of different groups. He noted ambulances and first-aid staff are allowed to do their work, and police are now waiting for the remaining protesters to leave the campus voluntarily. Watch: US House passes Hong Kong rights bill ''Apart from peaceful means, we also adopt a feasible approach to solve the problem. In this regard, we made a special arrangement for underage people. As long as they give up their weapons and leave the campus in a peaceful manner, we do our best in this regard, but we'll record their personal details and then let them go. But, of course, we will reserve the rights to pursue a case later," said Ho. The protesters gathered at the PolyU campus on November 11, committing violent acts such as hurling gasoline bombs and shooting arrows at police and government supporters. "Increasing violence in Hong Kong has continuously affected our core values and the international community's confidence in Hong Kong. This impacts Hong Kong's rule of law. Only through fortifying the implementation of the 'one country, two systems' principle by ourselves and rebuild our home, can we see the Hong Kong that we know once again," said Cheng. Initially, the protests were triggered by a controversial bill that would have allowed extradition to China, but eventually morphed into a full-fledged movement asking for democracy in Hong Kong. (With inputs from Reuters)

Give up weapons and leave campus peacefully, Hong Kong police chief appeals to students

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